Celebration of Kabaka Mutebi II’s 71st birthday at Namungoona Cathedral

13 April 2026, 2:32 pm

By Ronald Ssemagonja

People who hold deep loyalty and belief in the Buganda Kingdom gathered today at St Nicholas Orthodox Cathedral in Namungoona, Kampala, to celebrate the 71st birthday of His Majesty Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II. The atmosphere was filled with joy, prayers, and unity as subjects, religious leaders, and political figures came together to honor the King.

The thanksgiving service attracted a wide range of religious leaders from different faiths. Among them were Archbishop Stephen Kazimba Mugalu of the Church of Uganda, Bishop Paul Ssemogerere of the Catholic Church, Sheikh Galabuzi representing the Muslim community, and other prominent faith leaders. Their presence reflected a strong message of interfaith harmony and respect for the Kabaka.

The event was warmly received and officiated with honor. Leaders of the Buganda Kingdom, including the Katikiro Charles Peter Mayiga and Queen Sylvia Nagginda, were warmly welcomed by the Orthodox Church leadership upon arrival.

During his sermon, the Bishop of the Orthodox Church in the Eastern Region, Bishop Kisitu, expressed gratitude to God for preserving the life of the Kabaka. He thanked the Buganda Kingdom for entrusting the Orthodox Church with leading prayers for such a significant occasion.

He further reflected on the historical bond between the Orthodox Church and Buganda Kingdom, noting that during the reign of Kabaka Chwa, the Church was granted land where believers continue to worship today. He emphasized that this long-standing relationship is a sign of friendship and mutual respect.

Drawing from biblical wisdom, Bishop Kisitu reminded the congregation of King Solomon, who prayed for wisdom and was granted it by God. He therefore prayed that God continues to bless Kabaka Mutebi II with wisdom to guide his people. In addition, he cautioned parents against allowing young children to use bodabodas, describing it as risky and dangerous.

The Archbishop of the Orthodox Church in Uganda, Metropolitan Jeronymos Muzeeyi, also addressed the gathering. He praised the Buganda Kingdom for maintaining a strong relationship with the Church and commended the unity displayed at the celebration. He further condemned the alleged killing of four children in Rubaga and called on the government to ensure justice is served for the affected families.

He also emphasized the importance of truth, justice, and protection of life, urging leaders to safeguard the welfare of all citizens.

In his remarks, the Katikiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga, expressed appreciation to the Orthodox Church for organizing the event. He also thanked all religious leaders and participants, including those who took part in the recent Kabaka Birthday Run.

He congratulated the Kabaka upon reaching 71 years, describing him as a leader still strong and capable of guiding his people. The Katikiro emphasized the importance of health within the Kingdom, noting that initiatives like the Birthday Run are aimed at raising awareness about diseases such as prostate cancer and promoting healthy living.

He further called for unity among the people of Buganda, warning that division weakens society. “We must remain united so that no enemy can scatter us,” he said.

The event ended in a spirit of thanksgiving, unity, and renewed commitment to supporting the Kabaka and the Buganda Kingdom.